🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Sub Model:

325, 325e, 325es

Year:

1985

Chassis Code:

E30

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Entry-level luxury sport sedan. Competed with Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, and other European and Japanese compact executive cars.

Key Strengths:

Excellent handling and driving dynamics (BMW's hallmark), rear-wheel-drive bias, solid build quality, and refined inline-six engines.

Engine Lineup:

Known for its smooth and torquey inline-six engines, particularly the M20 series.

Design:

Iconic E30 chassis design, considered a classic by many enthusiasts.

Driving Experience:

Praised for its balanced chassis, responsive steering, and engaging driving feel.

📋 Manual Details

Models Covered:

BMW 325, 325e, 325es

Model Years Covered:

1985

Estimated Page Count:

Comprehensive (typical for this era's full service manuals, often 500+ pages)

Type:

Full Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely printed; digital versions (PDF) may exist for this title.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair procedures for all engine components (pistons, rings, bearings, valves, camshafts, crankshaft, etc.). Includes timing belt/chain replacement, cylinder head service, and block machining specifications.

Engine Fuel System:

Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection system diagnosis and repair, fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel filter replacement, and troubleshooting.

Engine Ignition System:

Ignition timing, spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor, ignition control module (if applicable), and troubleshooting.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan operation, and coolant specifications and flushing procedures.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (if equipped), muffler, and pipe replacement and inspection.

Transmission Manual:

Service, repair, and overhaul procedures for Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission. Clutch replacement, flywheel service, and gearbox fluid specifications.

Transmission Automatic:

Service, repair, and diagnosis for ZF 4HP22 automatic transmission (if applicable to specific models/trims). Transmission fluid and filter replacement, shift linkage adjustment.

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, CV joints, differential (rear axle), axle shafts, and wheel bearing service.

Suspension Front:

McPherson strut, control arms, ball joints, sway bar, bushings, and alignment specifications.

Suspension Rear:

Trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, and alignment specifications.

Steering System:

Power steering pump, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, and fluid specifications.

Brake System Front:

Front disc brakes, calipers, rotors, brake pads, and hydraulic lines. ABS system diagnosis (if equipped).

Brake System Rear:

Rear disc brakes, calipers, rotors, brake pads, and hydraulic lines. Parking brake mechanism.

Electrical System Charging:

Alternator, voltage regulator, battery, and wiring.

Electrical System Starting:

Starter motor, starter solenoid, and ignition switch.

Electrical System Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, fuses, relays, and wiring diagrams.

Electrical System Accessories:

Power windows, door locks, mirrors, horn, wipers, washers, and climate control systems.

Body Exterior:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seals, and alignment.

Body Interior:

Dashboard removal, instrument cluster, seats, upholstery, carpeting, and trim panels.

HVAC System:

Heater core, blower motor, A/C compressor, refrigerant lines, climate control panels, and servicing.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, fuel filter replacement, belt inspections and replacements.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for engine, electrical, and mechanical issues.

Repair And Rebuild:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation.

Component Replacement:

Detailed guides for replacing common wear items and major components.

Alignment And Adjustment:

Wheel alignment specifications and adjustment procedures, clutch pedal adjustment, and idle speed adjustments.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all systems.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic scheduled maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

If digital, expect searchable PDF with clear diagrams and text. Likely OCR'd if not a natively digital product.

Print Quality:

Typically high-quality reproductions with clear line drawings and diagrams. Paper quality is usually durable for workshop use.

Binding:

Likely a robust binding (e.g., saddle-stitched or perfect bound for larger manuals) designed for workshop durability.

Paper Type:

Durable paper stock, often with a matte finish to reduce glare in workshop lighting.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M20B27

Configuration:

Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC

Displacement:

2.7 Liters (2693 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 81.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.3:1 (for 325e)

Horsepower 325E:

121 hp @ 4800 rpm

Torque 325E:

170 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm

Horsepower 325Es:

121 hp @ 4800 rpm (often same base engine, 's' could denote sportier suspension/styling)

Torque 325Es:

170 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm

Engine Tuning Note:

The M20B27 in the 'e' models was tuned for economy and low-end torque with a 'Lambda control' system and lower redline, often referred to as the 'eta' engine.

Fuel Injection:

Bosch L-Jetronic (Motronic for some later models, but L-Jetronic is common for '85 models)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

ECU:

Bosch Motronic (likely ECU type for this era, though specific version varies)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission

Transmission Type:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission

Drive Layout:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2565 mm (101.2 in)

Length:

4345 mm (171.1 in)

Width:

1675 mm (65.9 in)

Height:

1380 mm (54.3 in)

Curb Weight Est:

Approx. 1250-1350 kg (2755-2975 lbs), depending on transmission and options.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Est:

Approx. 1750 kg (3858 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings Est:

No specific NHTSA ratings available for this model year from that era. Generally considered safe for its time.

ABS:

Optional on some models, standard on higher trims or later production years of E30.

Seatbelts:

Three-point front seatbelts, two-point rear seatbelts (lap belts).

Structure:

Reinforced passenger compartment, crumple zones front and rear.

💡 Technology Features

Radio System:

Typically an AM/FM radio with cassette player. Options for upgraded sound systems existed.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available, a significant safety feature for its time.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by modern standards. Basic connectivity would refer to power windows, mirrors, and potentially central locking.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Check manual for specific recommendation.

Timing Belt Interval:

M20 engines use a timing belt. Replacement is critical, usually around 50,000-60,000 miles or 4-5 years due to degradation. Consult manual for exact interval and procedure.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 20,000-30,000 miles, or as specified by plug type.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 recommended (verify with manual for ambient temperature ranges).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.75 liters (5.0 US quarts) with filter change for M20B27.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., BMW Blue or equivalent). Mixture 50/50 with distilled water.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (verify with manual).

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron-III (or equivalent), consult manual for exact specification.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron-II or Dexron-III (verify with manual).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (verify with manual).

Engine Mounts:

Worn engine mounts are common, leading to vibration and clunking under acceleration/deceleration.

Fuel Injector Seals:

Leaking fuel injector seals can cause rough idling, fuel smell, and starting issues.

Heater Control Valve:

Common failure point leading to no heat or overheating issues.

Window Regulators:

Manual and electric window regulators can fail over time, causing windows to not operate correctly.

Rubber Bushings:

Age-related degradation of rubber bushings in suspension, subframes, and steering can affect handling and ride quality.

Coolant Leaks:

Plastic thermostat housing and expansion tank can become brittle and crack, leading to coolant leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

BMW's commitment to 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' heritage, emphasizing performance, engineering, and driver engagement.

E30 Introduction:

The E30 platform was introduced in 1982 as the successor to the E21 3 Series. The 325e variant was introduced in 1983 in Europe and 1984 in North America.

325 Variant:

The '325' designation typically replaced the '323i' in some markets, and the '325e' specifically utilized the M20B27 'eta' engine for improved fuel economy and torque.

Production Period:

The E30 series was produced from 1982 to 1994. The 325e/325es variants were part of the earlier E30 production run.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Acclaim:

The E30 generation is widely recognized as one of BMW's most successful and iconic models, lauded for its driving dynamics and enduring design.